Navigating Cannabis as a Christian: Biblical Wisdom for Today’s Choices
- Beto Gudino
- Aug 22, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 12
Dr. Todd Miles on Applying Scripture to Marijuana Use in the 21st Century
“The cannabis plant is a generous provision of a good God, but like all of God’s good gifts, it can be used responsibly or misused.” – Dr. Todd Miles
As cannabis legalization sweeps across the United States and beyond, Christians face new questions about how to engage with this cultural shift while staying true to their faith. In a thought-provoking episode of ChristianPodcast.com, host Beto Gudiño sits down with Dr. Todd Miles, theology professor at Western Seminary and author of Cannabis and the Christian: What the Bible Says About Marijuana, to unpack this complex issue. Dr. Miles, a former nuclear engineer turned seminary professor, brings a unique perspective, blending rigorous biblical scholarship with practical insights for the modern church.
Why Cannabis Matters for Christians
Marijuana is no longer a fringe topic. With recreational cannabis legal in states like Oregon and Washington, and medical marijuana gaining acceptance worldwide, the church can no longer rely on outdated answers like “it’s illegal, so don’t do it.” As Dr. Miles shares, the legalization of recreational marijuana in Washington prompted a church member to ask, “Now that it’s legal, can I smoke pot?” This question revealed a gap in Christian thinking, pushing Dr. Miles to explore what Scripture says about marijuana use.While the Bible doesn’t mention cannabis explicitly, it offers clear guidance on intoxication, discipleship, and living intentionally for God’s glory. Dr. Miles emphasizes that the cannabis plant, like all of God’s creation, is inherently good but can be misused. He warns against equating legality with morality, urging Christians to approach marijuana with wisdom and discernment.
THC vs. CBD: Understanding the Difference
One of the episode’s key contributions is clarifying the distinction between THC (the psychoactive component that produces a “high”) and CBD (a non-intoxicating compound). Dr. Miles explains that while both come from the same cannabis plant, their effects and uses differ significantly. THC, responsible for euphoria, poses risks like addiction (affecting 1 in 10 adult regular users and 16–17% of teenage regular users), reduced IQ (up to 8 points with regular use before age 25), and increased mental health risks, especially for those with genetic predispositions to psychosis. CBD, on the other hand, shows proven medical benefits, such as reducing seizures in severe childhood epilepsy and alleviating joint pain, without the intoxicating effects.Dr. Miles cautions against the hype surrounding medical marijuana, noting that claims of curing everything from cancer to Crohn’s disease are often unproven. He encourages Christians to approach medical marijuana with careful research and consultation with healthcare professionals, ensuring responsible use.Biblical Perspectives on IntoxicationThe Bible’s teachings on drunkenness provide a framework for thinking about marijuana. Dr. Miles highlights three reasons Scripture forbids drunkenness: it diminishes cognitive ability, physical capacity, and moral judgment. Since THC demonstrably affects all three, he argues that getting high is incompatible with Christian discipleship. He points to Jesus’ refusal of a narcotic (wine mixed with myrrh) on the cross as a compelling data point, suggesting a call to remain clear-minded even in suffering.However, Dr. Miles is cautious about blanket prohibitions. While he firmly believes getting high is sinful, he leaves room for Christians to consider moderate, non-intoxicating uses of cannabis, particularly CBD, under medical guidance. He poses wisdom questions to guide decisions: Does this enhance or diminish my worship? Can I use this to God’s glory? These questions challenge believers to align their choices with their faith.
Cultural Challenges and the Church’s Response
As cannabis becomes as commonplace as alcohol in many places, Dr. Miles predicts increased use, including among minors, despite legalization’s promise of control. This trend demands that churches equip themselves with biblical wisdom. Pastors and parents must move beyond stigma or simplistic answers to provide informed counsel. Dr. Miles’ book, Cannabis and the Christian, serves as a vital resource, offering scriptural insights and practical advice for navigating this issue.He also addresses the misconception that psychoactive drugs like marijuana can enhance spiritual connection. Dr. Miles contrasts biblical meditation—filling one’s mind with God’s Word, as described in Eugene Peterson’s Eat This Book—with Eastern practices that empty the mind. He argues that using marijuana to “commune with God” lacks biblical support and risks aligning more with 1960s hippie culture than Christian spirituality.
A Call to Intentional Living
Dr. Miles’ core message is that the Christian life requires intentionality, with “no divided loyalties and no double-mindedness.” Whether considering recreational or medical marijuana, believers must weigh the risks, benefits, and spiritual implications. His book and this podcast episode empower Christians to make decisions that honor God in a world where cannabis is increasingly normalized.For churches, the challenge is clear: educate, engage, and equip. By addressing cannabis openly, pastors can guide congregations toward wise choices, fostering a faith that stands firm amid cultural shifts. As Dr. Miles puts it, “We have all the divine words we need to live faithfully before God.” Let’s use them to navigate this new terrain with clarity and conviction.Get the Book and Join the ConversationTo dive deeper, grab Cannabis and the Christian: What the Bible Says About Marijuana by Dr. Todd Miles. Visit ChristianPodcast.com for show notes, links to the book, and more resources, including Dr. Miles’ podcast Food Trucks in Babylon. How is your church addressing cannabis? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s continue this vital conversation for the 21st-century church.
Find Western Seminary here: https://www.westernseminary.edu/
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